Whiplash

When the ground falls and you plunge —

straight into the water —

you remember the fear you’ve forgotten awhile ago.

Like a torrential rain, it will dissipate

cotton candy clouds of idyllic daze,

and the familiar senses — the survival —

kicks right back in.

But don’t you go chasing after that stick yet.

Remember the rhythm, the breathing, so that you can see —

beyond what is immediate, beyond what feels tangible, and for what we will stand for in the end.

Remember the smile. Remember the soft warmth. Remember the playfulness.

Remember that you are loved.

4.5.2025